Abstract
The presence and distribution of NADPH-diaphorase (ND) neurons as well as tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH) neurons in the hypothalamus are well established. Previous studies have shown the coexistence of ND with neuroactive substances such as calbindin, somatostatin, vasopressin and oxytocin in neurons of this region of the brain. As the topographical patterns of distribution of ND and TH coincide in many cases, the aim of this study was to determine the possible coexistence of both substances in the main hypothalamic magnocellular nuclei of the albino rat. Histochemical-immunocytochemical double labelling was employed on the same sections as well as a morphometric study. NADPH-diaphorase and tyrosine hydroxylase neurons were observed in all the nuclei under study (supraoptic, paraventricular and accessory nuclei), although most neurons showing the coexistence of both substances were mainly located in the supraoptic nucleus, isolated neurons with double labelling being found in the magnocellular parts of the paraventricular nucleus and in some of the accessory nuclei. Although both substances have previously been shown to be modified in hypothalamic neurons after osmotic stimuli, the range of functions of ND in the CNS is only beginning to be understood. Further studies are needed to elucidate the functional role that ND/TH neurons play in the nervous system.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
